Specialist police officers are to be deployed during Bonfire Night – to protect colleagues from attacks by firework thugs during this year’s celebrations.
The public order officers, who are specially trained, will be sent to support local police teams needing help to deal with outbreaks of firework-related offences.
The Police Scotland scheme, entitled Operation Moonbeam, has been arranged in response to a rise in disorder around Bonfire Night over the last few years.
The force said last year its officers were subjected to “unprecedented” levels of aggression and violence from the public, with 62 staff suffering a range of injuries from fireworks thrown at them.
This year’s operation was launched at Glasgow Green alongside Crimestoppers and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, who both launched their own initiatives aimed at deterring the reckless use of fireworks.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, gold commander for Operation Moonbeam, said: “What we saw last year was an unacceptable level of hostility and violence, which was primarily directed at police officers and, for the most, was instigated by adults linked to organised crime, who provided young people with fireworks and other weapons and encouraged them to attack officers.
“This horrific behaviour jeopardised the safety and wellbeing of those who were trying to keep communities safe. Significant investigation was undertaken in the weeks and months that followed and numerous people were charged in connection with these incidents.
“I want to make it clear that those responsible for endangering the lives of police officers, other emergency service workers, or members of the public will be identified, and they will be brought to justice.
“In the event you avoid being caught on the night, you can expect a visit from us once we have conducted our inquiries. I would ask the public to work alongside us in helping make Bonfire Night a safe and enjoyable occasion.”
People are also asked “to report any criminality you witness, or any suspicions you may have that others are seeking to do harm within our communities”.
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